Online, engaged, and on guard
The internet crackles with potential – the ability to connect, share, communicate. But in many countries, these freedoms are stifled by state censorship, surveillance, disinformation and economic inequality. Five reports from China, Russia, Cuba, Somalia and the Middle East show how the struggle for internet freedom plays out in the lives of ordinary citizens.
Illustration by Coelho / RFE/RL
Russian Disinformation 2.0
Since the outbreak of Russia’s conflict with Ukraine in 2014, Moscow’s campaign of disinformation — particularly targeting EU and NATO countries — has moved into overdrive. Only now are the full scope and complexity coming into focus.
READ THE FULL STORYEncrypted messaging apps struggle against authoritarian regimes
Repressive governments are fighting back against encrypted messaging apps like WhatsApp and Telegram.
Open technology fund
Mapping online censorship
Explore state-sponsored censorship in Russia, China, Iran, Egypt and Cuba.
Russia
China
Cuba
Egypt
IranAlhurra
Shrinking space for free speech
The internet gives Arab youth a space to talk, criticize and mobilize. But restrictions on that space are cropping up in Egypt, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and Morocco.
Martí Noticias
Options expanding in Cuba?
Adictos al iPhone, a tech startup in Cuba, is betting on broader web access in Cuba. Its staff finds ways to work around communication obstacles.
Illustration by Brian Williamson / VOA
Digital explorers
About the project
This project explores internet freedom and how its availability, or restrictions, affect individuals. It’s a joint initiative by Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, Middle East Broadcasting Networks, Voice of America, Radio Free Asia and the Office of Cuba Broadcasting.
About the USAGM
The U.S. Agency for Global Media oversees five U.S. government-funded civilian news agencies in its mission to inform, engage and connect people around the world in support of freedom and democracy. The combined weekly audience exceeds 278 million.